Physical properties of the nematic liquid crystal, APAPA. Optical determination of the viscoelastic and elastic ratios

Abstract

We report a study of the viscoelastic and elastic properties of a nematic liquid crystal as measured by static and dynamic light scattering. Experimental values are reported for the splay/twist/bend elastic and viscoelastic ratio as well as for the Miesowicz viscosity ratio η1/η3 of APAPA in the nematic region as a function of temperature.